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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Up to 18 m tall
Size:
Up to 18 m tall
Distribution:
The species is native to large parts of sub-Saharan Africa (including, but not limited to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe). In South Africa, it is found in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, North West and some parts of Northern and Eastern Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
86.86 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
17.18 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.39 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 97.4%, D: 1.4%]
Importance:
Sclerocarya birrea is an economically and culturally important African tree, valued for products such as Amarula Cream Liqueur, cosmetic oil, and its traditional medicinal uses, while also supporting rural livelihoods. Its drought tolerant and deep rooting system make it important in agroforestry and ecosystem resilience. Sequencing its genome will improve understanding of its biology, support conservation and breeding efforts, and enhance sustainable commercial development.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Prof. Eshchar Mizrachi
University of Pretoria
Group:
Monocot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
20 – 65 cm
Distribution:
W. brachyandra is endemic to the Cape floral region.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
90.7 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
9.71 kilobases
Assembly N50:
711.38 kilobases
Contig number:
4 419
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
0.36 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.3% [S: 80.2%, D: 19.1%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Wachendorfia brachyandra
Short-stamen butterfly-lily
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Importance:
Wachendorfia brachyandra is one of only five known species worldwide that exhibits floral asymmetry in the form of enantiostyly. Studying this species will help improve understanding of pollination adaptations in fynbos plants.
Date Published:
2026-03-09
Photo credit:
© N Illing
Flora
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